These easy zucchini fritters are a tasty way to use up extra zucchini. With a crispy outside and soft inside, they make for a perfect snack or side dish!
They’re so simple to whip up, and the kids love them! I often serve them with a dollop of yogurt on the side. It’s a fun and tasty way to sneak in some veggies! 🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: This is the star of the show! Use medium zucchinis for the best texture. If zucchinis are hard to find, yellow squash is a great alternative, offering a similar taste and texture.
Salt: The salt isn’t just for flavor; it also draws out moisture from the zucchini. If you’re watching your sodium intake, feel free to use a salt substitute or reduce the amount to your liking.
Flour: All-purpose flour is common, but you can substitute with whole wheat flour for added fiber or almond flour for a gluten-free option. Each will give a slightly different texture but still work well.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a lovely salty flavor. If you can’t find parmesan, Pecorino Romano can add a delightful twist. Nutritional yeast is a good dairy-free alternative that can give a cheesy flavor without the cheese.
Egg: The egg binds the fritters together. If you’re vegan or allergic, try using a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) as a substitute!
Chives: Fresh chives give a nice oniony flavor. If you don’t have them, green onions or even finely chopped shallots will work in a pinch. Dry chives can be used, but they’re less potent than fresh.
How Do I Make Sure My Zucchini Fritters Are Crispy?
To achieve crispy fritters, the key is to remove as much moisture as possible from the zucchini. Here’s how to do it:
- After grating the zucchini, sprinkle with salt and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. The salt will pull moisture out.
- Next, use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to squeeze the zucchini. Make sure to get rid of all that liquid—this is crucial for crispiness!
When frying, ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the fritters. If the oil isn’t hot, they can absorb too much oil and become soggy. Frying them in medium heat for the right amount of time (3-4 minutes per side) will give that lovely golden brown color and crunchy texture.
How to Make Easy Zucchini Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Olive oil for frying
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need around 10-15 minutes to prepare the ingredients, plus some time to cook the fritters. They are quick to fry and even quicker to disappear!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchinis. Once that’s done, put the grated zucchini into a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and sprinkle it with salt. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. This will help draw out extra moisture, which is key for crispy fritters. After waiting, squeeze the zucchini in the towel to remove as much liquid as possible.
2. Mix the Fritter Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini, flour, grated parmesan, egg, black pepper, garlic powder (if you’re using it), and the chopped chives. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and looks like a thick batter.
3. Fry the Fritters:
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a few tablespoons of olive oil to coat the bottom. Once the oil is hot, scoop about 2-3 tablespoons of the zucchini mixture for each fritter. Flatten them slightly with the back of a spatula. Fry the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. This should give your fritters a delicious, crunchy texture!
4. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, carefully transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to get rid of any excess oil. Serve them warm, garnished with extra chives on top, and enjoy them with a side of sour cream or Greek yogurt for dipping. They make a fantastic snack or side dish!
Can I Use Any Type of Squash Instead of Zucchini?
Yes, you can! While zucchini is traditional, yellow squash or even grated carrots can work well in this recipe. Just make sure to follow the same method of salting and squeezing out excess moisture to keep the fritters crispy.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
If you don’t have parmesan on hand, you can use pecorino cheese or even a vegan cheese alternative if you want a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly based on the cheese you choose!
How Should I Store Leftover Zucchini Fritters?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until they’re warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Bake These Fritters Instead of Frying?
Absolutely! To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, lightly grease it, and place your fritters on it. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown. This method is a bit healthier and still delicious!
